Coming 2025–2026: Celebrating 200 Years of Railway History with a Social Impact Twist
To mark the bicentenary of railway history in Scotland, Rail 74 Community Rail Partnership is launching an exciting new project: Travelling Classrooms – Making Tracks to Inclusion: Railway 200.
This innovative initiative will bring together local communities, schools, and support groups across Lanarkshire for a dynamic, immersive learning journey—onboard real train services.
🎯 What’s it all about?
Between May 2025 and April 2026, we’ll be delivering a series of free and subsidised rail journeys, each paired with fun, educational sessions exploring:
- 🚉 The history of the railways and their role in shaping Scotland
- 🌍 Sustainable transport and climate awareness
- đź§ Autism awareness and inclusion in public travel
- 🚨 Rail safety and travel confidence for all ages
The project aims to break down barriers to train travel, especially for those experiencing disadvantage or social exclusion. A highlight of the year will be a “Day Out Experience” for 200 people, including a guided train trip, interactive learning, and a shared lunch.
👥 Who will benefit?
- Young people from local schools and youth groups
- Neurodivergent individuals supported by Scottish Autistic Consultants
- Families facing financial hardship
- Lifelong learners curious about transport, history, or new experiences
By blending heritage with hands-on engagement, this project promotes not just education—but inclusion, wellbeing, and community connection.
🤝 Working in partnership
We’re proud to work with:
- Scottish Autistic Consultants (autism-led education delivery)
- Local schools and community groups
- ScotRail staff
- Railway heritage storytellers and creatives
🔍 Why this matters
Our two previous years of rail-based learning were met with amazing feedback and high demand. As we celebrate 200 years of rail, we’re expanding our impact—encouraging confidence in public transport, understanding of autism, and a sense of belonging for all participants.
📢 Stay tuned!
Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and TikTok for updates, behind-the-scenes clips, and announcements throughout 2025–2026. This is more than a history project—it’s a movement towards a more inclusive, connected future through Scotland’s railways.
#Railway200 #MakingTracksToInclusion #TravellingClassrooms #Rail74CRP
